Ovechkin, who led the league in goals and points last season, discussed the situation and his trip with general manager George McPhee on Sunday night.

The star left wing hasn't scored a goal in the past six games and is tied for fifth on the Capitals with five points this season.

"He had to go and he wanted to be near (his grandfather), but if you know Alex, he doesn't want to leave his teammates," Boudreau said. "So that's always a struggle, but in the end, he knows what he needs to do - and that's family first."